Pakistan calls for independent probe into alleged use of Chemical Weapons in Kashmir

Srinagar

Pakistan has called for an independent investigation into the alleged use of chemical weapons against civilians in Kashmir.

“We have noted with serious concern the media reports [relating to the use of chemical weapons],” Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Muhammad Faisal said during a weekly news briefing on Thursday.

The spokesperson was asked if Pakistan planned to raise at the international fora the use of chemical weapons by Indian forces, causing “deaths of many”.
“Should these reports find credence, this use [of weapons]would constitute a breach of Indian international obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention,” express Tribune reported.

“We call for independent investigations into such reports, including through Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Faisal added.

The spokesperson noted that Indian policy of denying access to any independent observers raised legitimate concerns.

In September, Amnesty International reiterated its call for a ban on pellet-firing shotguns used by Indian forces in occupied Kashmir to quell civilian protests. In a report, the rights group said it had interviewed 88 people whose eyesight had been damaged by the metal shot from the pump-action guns.

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For surveillance of Kashmiris, union govt to issue 1-stop I-cards

Srinagar

The union government is planning to provide Kashmiris with special one-stop identity cards, in a move that’s likely to increase surveillance amid rising cases of “terror-related violence” in the Valley.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has already issued these cards to people in bordering areas of Jammu and Kashmir. These cards, data of which will be stored online, will include all relevant information and will allow residents not to carry any other identity proof.

“Almost 100 per cent people in the Valley carry some or the other form of identity proof. The idea is to make things simple with a single card that works as both online and offline identity proof,” a government source said, quoted DNA India.

The proposal was brought during a meeting of officials of the Union HRD ministry and MHA early this month to discuss the implementation strategy of “Revival of education in Kashmir”.

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Father of slain JKLF commander Sheikh Hamid passes away

Srinagar

Abdul Kabir Sheikh, the father of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front’s militant commander, late Sheikh Hamid passed away this afternoon.

According to the family sources the Namaz-e-Janaza of Sheikh will be offered at 10 pm tonight at Batamaloo.

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BJP-PDP govt demolished democratic institutions in J&K: Panchayat Conference

Jammu

Holding BJP and PDP government responsible for all miseries in Jammu and Kashmir, All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference leaders have accused the present state government responsible of weakening democratic institutions in the state of Jammu and Kashmir due to which the people have lost interest in such institutions.

Addressing reporters in Jammu,  Shafiq Mir chairman All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference said that before initiating any election process in the state, the government should restore Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act 1989 in its original form and should implement 73rd amendment of Indian constitution in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

He asked the BJP to clear its stand on 73rd amendment of Indian constitution regarding Panchayati Raj and let the people know where this so-called nationalist party stands. Mir said they were ready to contest Panchayat elections but the government has to ensure the peaceful atmosphere for the same.

Mir accused BJP-PDP government of demolishing peace of the state by exploiting the regional, religious and political sentiments of the people . However, both these parties took complete U-turn after taking over the power due to which the people of the state have completely lost their faith in democratic exercise and institutions. He said in 2011 Panchayat elections, 90% people had voted for this democratic institution which indicates that people had lot of expectations from such local governing institutions, however, when this institution was not empowered people lost their faith in it. However, he said that they will continue their fight for the restoration of this institution saying that this is not political but a community institution which was established by our elders’ centuries ago. (CNS)

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200 militants including 100 Pakistanis killed this year so far

Srinagar

With the killing of five militants today in Northern and Central Kashmir, toll of militants killed this year during anti-militancy operations crossed 200 mark, a police official said.

He said that among the 200 slain militants 100 were non-local Pakistani nationals.

“100 local militants got killed this year in multiple gun battles across Kashmir Valley.”

Meanwhile, Jammu Kashmir Police Chief SP Vaid took to Twitter and wrote: “Today by the collective efforts of Jammu Kashmir Police, Indian Army, CRPF and people of Kashmir have led to neutralization of more than 200 militants in the year of 2017 alone. This marks a huge landmark for establishing peace and stability in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.”

Some of the top militant commanders killed this year included Abu Dujana, Bashir Lashkari, Abdullah Ghaznavi, Qayoom Najar, Mehmood Bhai, Umar Khatab from Pakistan killed at Hartar Sopore, Muzafar Ahmed Naiko alias Muza Molvi of Sopore killed at Gulzarpora Mohchu in Budgam, Abu Surag of Pakistan, Adil Ahmad Reshi of Bijbehara, Abid Ahmad Sheikh of Saktipora and Masood Ahmad Shah of Bewoora village killed in Awora Pahalgam, Abu Musaib of Pakistan killed at Parr Mohalla Hajin, Qari Anas and Abu Ali killed in Hadoora Ganderbal, Azaharuddin alias Ghazi Umar and Sajad Ahmed alias Babar killed in Amargarh Sopore, Mudasir Ahmad Tantray alias Asim of Redwani, Wakeel Ahmad Thokar of Harigam Kulgam, Farooq Ahmad Bhat of Chak Dasand and Younus Lone of Hawoora-Mishpora killed in Nagbal Frisal Kulgam, Mushtaq Ahmed Seer killed at Bandipora, Muhammad Shafi Sherguri and Jahangir Ahmed Ganaie killed at Padgampora, Ayoub Lelhari killed in Pulwama, Sabzar Ahmed killed at Saimou Tral and others. (CNS)

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Restructuring PSUs only way out for their revival: Dr Drabu

Srinagar

Minister for Finance, Labour & Employment Dr Haseeb Drabu today pitched for immediate restructuring the Public-Sector Undertakings (PSUs) operating in the state to make them better organized as per the present requirements.

The Minister said this while reviewing the functioning of various PSUs at a marathon meeting convened, here today.
Minister of State for Transport, Sunil Sharma was also present in the meeting.

The meeting was attended by heads/representatives of JK Women Development Corporation, JK Medical Supplies Corporation, Jammu Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute, JK Sports Council, JK Schedule Cast/Schedule Tribe/Backward Class Development Corporation, JK Wool Development Board, JK Cable Car Corporation, JK State Road Transport Corporation and other concerned officers.

During the meeting, the Minister was informed about the operational activities, source of funding, financial position, human resource involved and other issues confronting these PSUs.

Addressing the representatives of the Corporations, Dr Drabu said that to get out of the present state of affairs, both financially and organizationally, restructuring of the PSUs would help them to improve their performance and registering desired growth.

Dr Drabu asked the concerned officers to prepare an effective business model and to bring financial discipline in the Corporations. He suggested involving marketing professionals for a perfect business model for revenue generation and making the way ahead for a better future of these PSUs.

He also stressed on conducting audit for assessing actual financial position of the corporation besides effective human resource management for positive output.
While reviewing the functioning of JKSRTC, the Minister was apprised about the activities of the Corporation under its mandate and other measures taken to revive the PSU.

The representative of JKSRTC briefed the Minister about the revenue generation through operational and non-operational activities, expenditure, present financial position and the proposed plan to revive the Corporation.

For improving the transport operations in the state, JKSRTC demanded one-time capital infusion in addition to the budgetary support from the government for the procurement new vehicles including buses and trucks into the existing fleet so that the old vehicles can be replaced with new ones for effective transport operations.

Dr Drabu asked the Corporation for exploring the possibilities of having strategic partner and to act as the exclusive transporter for the government.

The Minister asked the concerned to prepare a revival and human resource plan identifying all the present and future requirements so that necessary action can be taken to bring in modernized transport system in the state with the help of technological interventions.

To assess the actual financial position of the Corporation, the Minister asked for conducting audit besides fresh revaluation of the assets to improve the net worth of the Corporation.

The representatives of all these Corporations requested for budgetary support as per their requirement besides other issues confronting them.

Dr Drabu said that the government will provide all necessary support including financial assistance to revive the Corporations but there is a need to take extra efforts in achieving the positive output that can lead the PSUs in a right direction.

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Mehbooba conducts surprise visit of SMGS Hospital, orders immediate attachment of MS over poor sanitation

Srinagar

Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday paid a surprise visit of the SMGS Hospital here and personally took stock of the sanitation, medical facilities and availability of medicine to the patients.

The Chief Minister visited various wards and Inpatient units of the Hospital. She also personally inspected the OPD, casualty, wash rooms, corridors and other places in the Hospital.

During the inspection, Mehbooba Mufti interacted with many patients admitted in the Hospital and their attendants and asked them about their feedback.

The Chief Minister’s office, it may be recalled, had been getting reports of poor sanitation and facilities in the Hospital over the past few months. During a recent review meeting with Administrative Secretaries, she had directed the concerned Department to take measures for improving the sanitation and service at the Hospital.

During the visit, Mehbooba Mufti expressed displeasure over the poor sanitation in the Hospital including the condition of wash rooms, air conditioners, beds, bedding and other material and directed improvement in the same.

The Chief Minister on spot ordered the attachment of medical Superintendent of the Hospital.

Later, the Chief Minister visited Maharaja Hari Singh Park on the banks of Tawi river in the city and took stock of the beautification works. She expressed satisfaction over the pace of work and asked the concerned to operationalize the library and coffee shop in the park.

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JK Bank ATMs at SKIMS, Umar Colony

SRINAGAR: J&K Bank Chairman & CEO Parvez Ahmed today dedicated two Automated Teller Machines to the Sheri Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) for public use.

JK Bank executives at ATM inaugration at SKIMS

Chairman Parvez Ahmed and the Director SKIMS Prof Abdul Gani Ahangar inaugurated the ATMs jointly in a simple ceremony attended by the senior management of the Bank, other officers and officials of SKIMS amid good gathering of attendants present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion Parvez Ahmed said, “As institution we are dedicated to provide world class products and hassle free services to people of the state. In view of the huge rush of public on daily basis to this tertiary care hospital, we commissioned two more ATMs in addition to the two that are already serving on the premises.”

“These inaugurations are not only part of our deepening the digital foot-print here but blends that with the real convenience and comfort of the people that remain at the heart of our every service delivery policy”, he added.

“I must admit that the employees of J&K Bank SKIMS branch are very dedicated as they provide hassle free and instant services to the more than 7000 employees of the institute. And these ATMs shall go a long way in benefiting both the patients and the staff at SKIMS”, remarked Director SKIMS, Dr. A G Ahangar while talking to the J&K Bank management on the sidelines of the inaugural ceremony.

Meanwhile, he tossed up the idea of providing a health insurance cover to the people of the state on mass level by the bank wherein on small premium they can avail a range of health benefits, which was favourably responded to by the chairman.

“We are already at discussion level with our insurance partners in this regard and are keen to work on the strategic projects in partnership with other stakeholders to provide the much needed value addition to the health sector in the state”, Chairman said.

To promote the digital banking culture among the staff members of the institute wherein they can avail loans and other banking related services on just a phone call, Chairman called for further deliberations and information exchange with the SKIMS authorities in this regard.

On the occasion, he also expressed his desire to open an e lobby in the institute in case some requisite space was available for it.

Notably, now there are 4 ATMs within the SKIMS premises to serve and benefit large number of SKIMS employees besides the unending stream of attendants who mostly need cash to purchase medicines or other related equipment in emergency situations from the market.

Meanwhile, Chairman also inaugurated an ATM in Umar Colony at Lal Bazar Srinagar amid good gathering of valuable customers, local traders and senior citizens.

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On eve of Eid-i-Milad, JK Bank donates ambulance to Dargah

SRINAGAR: J&K Bank Chairman and CEO Parvez Ahmad today presented the state-of-the-art ambulance to the senior functionaries of J&K Waqf Board while paying obeisance at the Dargah Hazratbal.

JK Bank CEO donates ambulance to Dargah Hazratbal

Chairman Parvez Ahmed handed over the key of vehicle to the Waqf Board’s Sr Controller Finances Ajaz Ahmad Mir in presence of the bank’s Executive Presidents Vagesh Chander, S S Sehgal, Sr. President Abdul Rasheed, Presidents Nishi Baru, Abdul Rashid Shegan, Zonal Head Manzoor Hussain, Vice Presidents Rakesh Gandotra, Sushil Kumar Gupta, Vinay Sawhney, Arvind Gupta, Cluster Head Shahzad Hussain Teli, Head Business Unit Kashmir University Campus Showkat Makhdoomi and other senior officers and office bearers of Waqf Board amid large gathering of people visiting the shrine.

Earlier, the Imam of Dargah Moulana Kamaluddin Farooqi received the Chairman along with his team at the sanctum sanctorum of Dargah and prayed for the collective good of people of J&K in presence of the Administrator Waqf Board Peer Masood-ul-haq, Sr. Controller Finances Ajaz Ahmad Mir and other office bearers of the shrine.

Thanking the Chairman for this kind gesture, Ajaz Ahmad Mir said that the ambulance will provide a huge relief to the people in the adjacent area of the shrine besides the faithful who visit here in huge numbers on the auspicious occasions especially on the Eid-i-Milad and Meiraj Alam.

“And we do have certain emergencies to take care of during the peak times on these occasions wherein the ambulance comes as a great relief to the administration here at Dragah”, he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Parvez Ahmed said, “Under CSR, we have been trying in our humble way to serve the societies we work with and give back to the society particularly across the state. And we shall continue to contribute towards creating the requisite infra-structure for the social and cultural well-being of the people in the state.”

Present on the occasion, the locals and the visitors-to-the-shrine hailed the bank’s noble gesture and praised the bank’s leadership for being socially conscious and sensitive to other needs of the society.

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5 drug peddlers nabbed in Kupwara

Kashmir Wire

KUPWARA: In a bid to eradicate the menace of drugs and psychotropic substances ruining the lives of youth, police on Thursday claimed to have arrested five notorious drug peddlers from different areas of northern Kupwara district and recovered two kilograms of charas and three bottles of liquor from their possession.

Representational Picture

The accused have been identified as Ghulam Rasool Wani of Doursa Lolab, Nazir Ahmad Ganie of Dogerpora Kalaroose, Abdul Rashid Ganie of Gund Kralpora, Bilal Ahmad Mir of Muqam Awoora and Tariq Ahmad Dar of Bumhama.

“A special team of police apprehended the accused. Their arrest is likely lead to more arrests and recoveries,” Shamsher Hussian, Senior Superintendent of police told Kashmir Wire.

“Police is committed to eradicate this menace from the district. I appeal everyone especially parents and youth to come forward and support police in curbing the menace that is ruining the lives of youth,” he added.

With their arrest, police in this frontier district in its crackdown against drug peddlers have arrested 45 accused so far this year including four allegedly involved in smuggling of narcotic from across the Line of control (LoC).

Drugs and psychotropic substances including 24 kilograms of charas, 2 kilograms of Heroin and 4.5 Kgs of brown sugar worth millions of rupees in international market have been recovered from the accused, officials said.

In addition, large quantity of banned drugs including codeine and of proxovan have also been recovered from drug peddlers, they added. (Kashmir Wire)

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Now, Reliance Jio says postpaid customers in J&K have two categories

Srinagar

The private cellular company, Jio, on Thursday tried its best to clear its position regarding the strong resentment shown by its subscribers but got exposed of having a biased policy towards the subscribers in Jammu and Kashmir.

In the clarification it said “in Jammu and Kashmir there are two types of postpaid connections. One is Pre-on postpaid and another is complete postpaid . While pre-on postpaid subscribers are lucky because they have not to pay GST while complete postpaid subscribers have to pay 18 per cent GST.”

In mainland India, there is no such category of pre-on postpaid and complete postpaid.

In the clarification it said ”now” all postpaid subscribers need to pay bills monthly.

“If you choose Rs.309 monthly plan you need to pay Rs.309 monthly plus 18 per cent GST”, Jio said.

The clarification came in the wake of accusation by subscribers that the company was fleecing them.Hundreds of subscribers stormed into the Rajbagh office of the company yesterday and raised anti-company slogans. Some of the subscribers were seen asking the company personnel to refund the money already paid by them as they felt cheated by the company.

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Dr Nisar appointed Registrar NIT Srinagar

Srinagar

Dr Nisar Ahmad Mir, Joint Secretary, University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi has been appointed Registrar, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar.

Dr Nisar besides looking after various bureaus in UGC, was country head for the prestigious National Academic Depository (NAD) project, under which a digital locker is being created for students in all the institutions of higher education to digitally stock their academic awards for verification and authentication. Under this project the students from across the country can download their certificates online anytime and also apply for online verification from any part of the world.

A resident of Dadsara, Tral, Dr Nisar previously worked as Deputy Registrar Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) Rajouri, and also as Joint Registrar Kashmir University.

In addition to his huge administrative experience, Dr Nisar has Doctorate in Sociology and has edited four books. He has published 30 research papers and has worked on 9 research projects funded by different Ministries.

 

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CM Mehbooba greets people on Eid-e-Milad

Srinagar

Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti has greeted the people of Jammu and Kashmir  on the auspicious occasion of Eid-i-Milad, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (SullallahoAliaheWasalam).

In her message of felicitation, Mehbooba Mufti prayed that the auspicious occasion proves to be a harbinger of harmony, peace, progress and prosperity in the State. “It’s an occasion to seek forgiveness from Almighty Allah and blessings for the entire mankind”, she said.

The Chief Minister said in the present-day world, marred by conflicts and discord, there is a dire need to practice firmly and promote the teachings of Prophet of Mercy (SullallahoAliaheWasalam) in which lies the solution to all problems of mankind.
Mehbooba Mufti has prayed for the well-being and happiness of the people of the State.

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On JRL’s call people hold sit-in at Nowhatta against assault on Kashmiri inmates at Tihar

Srinagar

Responding to the call of joint resistance leadership people on Thursday staged a protest sit-in at Nowhatta outside Jamia Masjid, against the “murderous” attacks on Kashmiri prisoners in Delhi’s Tihar and Kathua in Jammu, jails.

Scores of people, in response to the joint call of Hurriyat (G), Hurriyat (M) and Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), assembled at Nowhatta outside Jamia Masjid to register protest against the attacks on the kashmiri inmates of the jails in Delhi’s Tihar Jail and Kathua jail in Jammu.

The protesters were demanding shifting of Kashmiri prisoners from Tihar and Kathua jails to the Valley.

As many as 18 Kashmiri prisoners, including the son of Hizbul Mujahideen Supermo Syed Salahuddin were assaulted by the Tamil Nadu Special Force (TNSF) inside Delhi’s Tihar jail on November 21, which sent shock waves throughout the valley.

Cutting across party lines and ideologies, politicians of all hues condemned the security guards for the “shameful” act which not only was in violations of the law and jail manuals but inhuman as well.

Knowing the mood of the people, the Chief minister Mehbooba Mufti took up the matter with the union home secretary and publicly termed the incident as “shameful”.

“By such an act the personnel involved have not only brought disrespect to their state but to their fraternity as well”, she said addressing a attestation cum passing out parade at Police training school, Kathua, yesterday.

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Motorcyclist killed, another injured in road accident at Dialgam in Islamabad

Kashmir Wire

Islamabad

A motorcyclist was killed and his pillion mate injured in a road accident in Dialgam village of Islamabad district of southern Kashmir on Thursday.

Official sources said a lorry hit the motorcycle, resulting in on-spot death of the motorcyclist, identified as Faizan Khursheed, son of Khursheed Ahmad Wani, a resident of Wanihama village of district Islamabad.

The injured was identified as Arsalan Nazir, son of Nazir Ahmad from Munghal village of same district, who was later referred to Srinagar hospital for further treatment.

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Three drug peddlers arrested with cannabis in Jammu

Srinagar

Three alleged drug peddlers carrying 1.5 kg of cannabis were arrested in Jammu, police said Thursday.

The police intercepted a car, with three men, during a routine check at Vivekanand Chowk last evening, a police official said.
On checking, around 1.5 kg cannabis was recovered from their possession, the official said.

The arrested men were identified as Abdul Hamid, Mohammad Arif Khan and Yasir Ahmed khan – all from Uri in Baramula district, he said.

A case has been registered in this regard at Jammu city police station, he added.

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Giving chance to stone-pelters as we are a democracy not an Islamic terrorist society: BJP

Srinagar

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Thursday welcomed Jammu and Kashmir Government’s order of withdrawing cases against 4,327 youth involved in protests, saying it would give them a chance to build their future.

“The list is cleared by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) as we thought that all the protesters should be given another chance. We will watch their developments and we are a democratic humane society, not an Islamic terrorist society, therefore, we are giving them an opportunity to go back to school and be brilliant students,” Swamy told newsgathering agency ANI.

However, he added that the accused youth could be again taken into custody if they did not follow rules.

On Wednesday, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti ordered the withdrawal of cases against youth involved in 744 cases of stone pelting in the valley.

The decision was made on the basis of the report submitted by a high-powered committee headed by Director General of Police (DGP), said an official.

The chief minister initiated the review of cases against youth from 2008 to 2014 and in the first instance, 104 cases involving 634 youth were withdrawn within two months of her assuming power.

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Jammu and Kashmir: Union govt to offer better monetary incentives to surrendered militants

Srinagar

The government of India is preparing a new “surrender policy” to bring militants back with the possibility of more attractive monetary and social security support, media reports said on Thursday.

Apart from launching a multi-pronged crackdown in the Kashmir valley, the government is also trying to woo the local population with the promise of a better future through investment, job creation, and infrastructure development. At present, as part of the rehabilitation policy, a militant receives an immediate grant of Rs 1.5 lakh to be kept as a fixed deposit in a bank in the name of the surrendered person for a period of three years.

The money can be withdrawn by him only on completion of three years. The policy also allows the payment of Rs 2,000 as a monthly stipend for three years after the surrender. “In today’s time, the amount of Rs 1.5 lakh cannot be of much help for a person who has returned to the mainstream and has many responsibilities to fulfill and that is why a bigger monetary package is being considered along with an increase in the monthly stipend of Rs 2,000 per month,” sources said, quoted India Today.

“The terms and conditions for giving the monetary support to surrendered militants could also be made more liberal where a person does not have to wait for very long and can put the money for some use for his livelihood.” The amount given for surrendering weapons such as AK-47 and shoulder-fired missiles is also going to be increased significantly by the government.

The Centre is planning this surrender policy for militants at a time when footballer Majid Khan returned from the LeT.

India Today quoting sources said among a majority of the families in Kashmir whose children have joined the ranks with militants, fear that the youngsters may get killed and they need to be brought back to be saved from troops’ bullets.

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CISF constable shoots wife, colleague, his wife to death in Kishtwar

M Majid Malik
Kishtwar

A Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) constable on Thursday shot his wife, colleague and his wife to death with his service rifle in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir.

“During wee hours on Thursday at around 0200 hrs, we received an information of a shoot-out in CISF quarters in the NHPC colony in Shalimar Chowk,” Abrar Ahmed Choudhary, SSP Kishtwar said.

He said that the CISF constable namely Ingalapa Srinder of DHEP Shalimar CISF company in the NHPC Colony Shalimar, Kishtwar killed his wife identified as Lavanya, his colleague constable Rajesh Kikahne alongwith his wife Shoba with his service rifle.

“We have registered a murder case in this regard and arrested the accused and seized the service weapon used in committing the crime,” said the SSP.

He further added that experts of FSL team from Jammu have been called to help in investigations.

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Pakherpora: Civilian injured, most of Pulwama, Budgam closes

SRINAGAR: A young man is reported injured as a mixed column of police, CRPF and army are fighting a gun battle with the militants, reports from Budgam said.

Confirming the injury, a senior police officer identified him as Sayar Ahmad. “He has received an injury in his mouth but he is stable,” the officer said. “It is a bullet that seemingly has touched it.” The injured was evacuated to the hospital and later referred to Srinagar.

Police said the operation was the outcome of a specific information that at least three militants were hiding in the Futlipora village. These include two foreigners and a local, they said.

The entire belt surrounding the spot of teh encounter has voluntarily closed. These include the areas falling in Budgam and Pulwama districts. Already, Rajpora – the closet area to teh spot, was tensed over the mass marshalling of teh youth by the army on Sunday. Authorities have shut the internet services in the area.

(Photo used in the story is not directly linked to the event)

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Gunfight erupts in Budgam village in central Kashmir

Srinagar

An encounter ensued between militants and forces in Futlipora Pakharpora village of central Kashmir’s district of Budgam early Thursday morning, reports said.

They said that on a tip off about the presence of militants, forces and Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir launched a joint search operation in a village in Charar-e-Sharief in Budgam district early this morning.

The hiding militants fired upon the forces triggering a gunfight. The number of militants trapped was not immediately known.

Further details are awaited.

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PAO system: Dr Drabu asks to take all stakeholders on board

Jammu

For the smooth transition to the new Pay and Accounts Office (PAO) system, Minister for Finance, Labour & Employment Dr Haseeb A Drabu directed the concerned to conduct interactive exercises with all stakeholders to build a consensus besides educating them about the new system.

Dr Drabu said this while convening a meeting to review the progress made regarding replacement of existing Treasury system to Pay and Accounts Office (PAO), here today.

Stressing the importance of taking stakeholders on-board, Drabu, the spokesman said asked to include Deputy Commissioners in the process as they have a wider reach, so as to generate maximum consensus. He also asked for educating officers on the functioning of the new PAO system for better delivery of service.

Dr Haseeb A Drabu

He also said moving out of an ancient and archaic system of Treasuries will simplify the process of government payments besides enhancing efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery. He said that the new system, rather than geographical demarcation, will be departmental based and IT driven.

Drabu was informed that training sessions will be organized for Drawing Officers in Jammu as well as Srinagar.

The upcoming Pay and Accounts Office (PAO) system to be launched in January, 2018 replacing the existing treasury system will be instrumental in ensuring accurate and timely payment, timely realization of receipts, timely and accurate compilation/consolidation of monthly/annual accounts, adherence to prescribed accounting standards, rules and principals, timely, accurate, comprehensive, relevant and useful financial reporting and efficient monitoring.

Earlier, the spokesman said Dr Drabu convened a meeting to review the working of J&K Employees Provident Fund Organization.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner Provident Fund, Dr Abdul Rashid, and other senior officers.

The Minister was briefed about the activities and performance of the department besides apprised of the implementation of Provident Fund scheme in the state.

He asked for a detailed corpus under Provident Fund to be submitted to him, so that a comprehensive plan can be developed to make effective and efficient use of the organization resources.

 

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Union home ministry ordered withdrawal of cases, Mehbooba just signed the file, says Omar

Srinagar

Reacting to the reports that Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has withdrawn cases against stone pelters, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that there is no hand of Mehbooba in this development.

“Let me correct this for you – Dineshwar Sharma & Home Ministry in Delhi ordered the withdrawal of cases. Ms Mufti was left to sign the file,” he tweeted.

Earlier a government communique said that Mehbooba Mufti has approved the withdrawal of cases against 4327 youth involved in 744 cases of law and order nature.

This follows the recommendation of a high powered committee headed by Director General of Police which submitted its report to her today.

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CM Mehbooba approves withdrawal of cases against 4327 youth involved in 744 cases of law and order

Srinagar

In a major decision of far reaching impact, Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti has approved the withdrawal of cases against 4327 youth involved in 744 cases of law and order nature. This follows the recommendation of a high powered committee headed by Director General of Police which submitted its report to her today.

The DGP has been asked to regularly monitor the progress in the matter and furnish back a fortnightly report in this regard, reads a communication from the Home Department to the DGP sent late this evening.

Today’s decision marks the revival of process of withdrawal of cases started by Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti last year immediately after taking over.

Mehbooba Mufti had set on a process of review of cases against youth from 2008 to 2014 and in the first instance 104 cases involving 634 youth were withdrawn within two months of her assuming power. The process, unfortunately, got disrupted due to the continued violence and unrest for later part of the last year.

With this, the total number of cases withdrawn so far on the directions of the Chief Minister has gone to 848 and the persons benefitting out of these withdrawals stand at 4957.

The Chief Minister, it may be recalled, had committed withdrawal of cases against youth found not involved in heinous crimes and the revival of this process has fulfilled the promise made by Mehbooba Mufti.

Mehbooba Mufti recently has also directed review of cases from 2015-2017(till date) and decision on the same would be taken on the receipt of report by the high powered committee.

The withdrawal of cases against these youth was a major demand from various sections of the society in the State who would be heaving a sigh of relief after this decision.

The Chief Minister described today’s decision as a ray of hope for these young boys and their families terming it as an opportunity for them to rebuild their lives. She hoped the decision would help in creating a positive and conciliatory atmosphere in the State where the youth would be able to build their lives in a much more constructive and positive way.

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Jammu and Kashmir: Reliance Jio ‘fleecing’ customers; People aghast

Srinagar

The private cellular company, Reliance Jio, faced an ugly situation in Srinagar on Wednesday when hundreds of consumers stormed into the local office at Rajbagh locality accusing it of fleecing them.

The officials in the company acted like “brokers” and without listening to the grievances of the consumers suggested them to change from post-paid to pre-paid mode, the consumers told Kashmir Wire reporter when he visited the office.

One of the consumers who introduced himself as Ghulam Mohammad said he opted for Jio on October 19, 2017 and paid a sum of Rs.550 to the company with a promise that the pack is for two months.

Much to his surprise, he said, he received a bill for Rs.450/ payable on November 13. On inquiry the company said the bill is generated on 26th of every month. When he drew the company’s attention to the fact that he has made a payment only on October 19. The company failed to satisfy the consumer and asked him to pay the bill.

He said he has come to visit the Jio office to get clarifications but the officials told him to change over to the pre-paid mode after clearing the previous bill. You can change over to pre-paid mode and enjoy for 70 days after paying Rs.400, he quoted the officials.

Another consumer, Abdul Rashid said he bought Jio sim ten months ago on a payment of Rs.303. “I was told by the company that the phone will function for three months free of cost. After few months, I received a bill which I paid. Even after the payment, the phone stopped functioning. On inquiry, I was told that the pack continues but I have to pay a bill for Rs.1191 while the monthly rental is only Rs.365.

A middle aged woman,Veena, said she ofted for Jio in August this year and paid Rs.400 with a promise that the phone will function without any hinderence for three months. I was asked to pay a bill for Rs.499 on November 13 with a promise that it will function for 91 days. However, my phone went off on November 27.

“I had come here with a problem but nobody is listening. They have left us in lurch and the ordinary employees are not able to give a proper reply”, she said.

Another woman customer, Shareefa, said she had paid a sum of Rs.300 yesterday on account of recharge. Neither I received sms in acknowldgement of the amount nor any phone call. I do not know where the money has gone, she questioned?

The consumers raised slogans against the company and alleged that it was fleecing the consumers in Kashmir.

Kashmir Wire reporter was made to shuttle from one storey to another for the official comment from the incharge of the office.

He was told at two PM that it is “lunch time”. When the reporter again went to get his views at 3 PM, he was again told that it is “lunch Time”.

Around 4 PM when there was much hue and cry in the office, the receptionist said the office incharge is upstairs. After shuttling from one story to another, the boss was not in sight. (Kashmir Wire)

 

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DC calls for ensuring evening transport in Srinagar

Srinagar

Taking cognizance of complaints of unavailability of public transport facilities in the evenings in the district, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, on Wednesday convened a meeting with transporters representing different transport associations operating in the district.

The DC, while acknowledging the concerns of the transporters operating in the district, gave clear-cut instructions to the transporters to ensure availability of public transport facilities late into the evenings across the district.

He called for immediate reinforcements in public transport availability on all notified public routes in the district, particularly at the city centre.

Dr. Shah also asked the transporters to ensure that there is total control on their concerned fleets of public vehicles operating across the district.

He said the district administration acknowledges the concerns of the transporters operating in the district and that all possible support will be provided for earliest possible redress of concerns.

Dr. Shah said strict action will be taken if new complaints of unavailability or inadequateness of transport facilities in the evenings are reported from any part of the district.

The transporters assured the DC of availability of transport facilities late into the evenings in the district.

Speaking on the occasion, the DC said different teams have been constituted to ensure availability as well as adequateness of public transport in the evenings on all notified public routes in the district.

Dr. Shah requested the general public of the district to report any related complaints to the district administration at 0194-2452182 or srinagar@nic.in. He assured of quick redress of reported concerns.
The meeting was also attended by ADC (V) Srinagar and ARTO Srinagar.

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Restitute financial, physical assets to stay relevant: Dr Drabu to PSUs

Srinagar

Minister for Finance, Labour & Employment Dr Haseeb Drabu asserted the need for redefining the mandate of Financial Corporations besides reorganizing their financial, physical and human resources to help them remain relevant in present and projected financial scenarios in the state/nation.

The Minister said this while convening a meeting with the representatives of Jammu & Kashmir State Financial Corporation (JKSFC) and J&K State Cooperative Bank (JKSCB) convened to review the functioning of these Public-Sector Undertakings (PSUs), here today.
Principal Secretary Finance, Navin Kumar Choudhary besides other concerned officers were present on the occasion.

During the meeting, the Minister was briefed about operations, profitability, services, resource position etc of these corporations besides the problems confronting these Corporations. The meeting held deliberations on the issues related to each Corporation.

Addressing the heads of these Corporations, the Minister said that an intervention is necessary so that these Corporations can emerge as financial facilitators for state artisans; agro based and allied activities, MSMEs and others.

The Minister also stressed the need for formulation of effective working plan with adoption of innovative measures besides healthy technological interventions.

He emphasized on reorganizing human resources for the purpose of making it better organized for corporation’s present needs. This in turn will help in generating revenue for the Corporations, he added.

The heads of the Corporations also put forth various issues and demands including budgetary support and other necessary assistance from the government.

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Dorjey presents copy of ‘Our Cooperatives’ to Chief Minister

Srinagar

The Cooperative Department released its newsletter- Our Cooperatives today. A copy of the newsletter was presented to Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti by Minister for Cooperatives & Ladakh Affairs, T. Dorjey here today.

The newsletter details various initiatives by the Department for strengthening cooperative sector in the State.

Minister of State for Cooperatives, Mir Zahoor Ahmad; Commissioner-Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Shailendra Kumar and Secretary, Cooperative Department, Bashir Ahmad Bhat were also present on the occasion.

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CM Mehbooba lauds Jammu and Kashmir police for its patience, discipline in dealing with situations

Srinagar

Lauding the J&K Police for its patience and discipline in dealing with situations, Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti today said good behavior with people and strict discipline are key to excellent policing.

Addressing the Attestation cum Passing Out Parade of 25th batch of Police Training School, Kathua here today, the Chief Minister said though there are many challenges on the ground while dealing with the situation but the job done with discipline, dedication and good behavior with people fetches the desired results with huge public cooperation. She said protection of life and property and delivering their services with balance are the fundamental duties of an efficient police force. She added that J&K Police has no parallel in its professional commitment and discipline.

On the issues facing the State, Mehbooba Mufti said the root cause of militancy needs to be identified and fixed. She said recently she has ordered the review of cases against the youth during the unrest of last year. “You need to do the parenting of these youth who are barely of 12-14 years of age. They need to be counselled, educated and guided for which you people have to act as their guide philosophers”, she asked the Police.

Terming the recent incident of manhandling of prisoners at Tihar Jail as unacceptable and shameful, the Chief Minister said by such an act the personnel involved have not only brought disrespect to their State but to their fraternity as well.

She said our country being a civilized democracy; even the convicts have been guaranteed legal protection which ought to be extended to them.

Listing drug abuse as another challenge to the Force, Mehbooba Mufti asked the Police to chase drug peddlers with full force and secure the innocent youth from the clutches of drug addiction. She said she was happy to see that a de addiction centre set up by Police at Srinagar is working quite nicely but stressed on setting up each such centre at every district headquarters.

The Chief Minister expressed dismay over the rising incidents of crime against women and hoped the Women’s Police Stations set up by her Government would be able to provide justice to the victims adding that these Police Stations would be provided more facilities in coming times.

Detailing the welfare measures taken by her Government, the Chief Minister said already the ex gratia amount for the organization has been raised by three times and she has asked the Centre to raise its share to make it at par with Central Para Military Forces. She said also almost all cases of compassionate appointment or SRO-43 were either settled or concluded during the last one and a half year. The most chased demand of cadre review was undertaken in Police to ensure better promotion avenues to the officers and jawans of the force, she reminded the audience.

Mehbooba Mufti said the modernization of JK Police is being given a thrust with more sophisticated instruments for crime detection, weaponry and vehicles to match the challenges faced by it.

Minister for Forests and Ecology, Choudhary Lal Singh; several legislators and ex legislators; senior Police officers and officers of District administration and family members of the passed-out constables were present on the occasion.
Earlier, in his address, Director General of Police, Dr. Sheesh Pal Vaid thanked the Chief Minister for taking many welfare measures for the officers and constabulary of the Force. He also detailed some welfare measures being taken by the Department for the well being of officers and jawans.

The DGP also asked for strengthening Police-Public relations and asked the officers and jawans to seek more and more public goodwill in the discharge of their duties.

953 jawans passed out today from the school after going through the basic training for two years. A majority of them are highly qualified with 185 post graduates and 348 graduates.

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OGW surrenders before Army in southern Kashmir

Srinagar

An over ground worker of militants has surrendered before Army in southern Kashmir, reports said on Wednesday.

They said that Altaf Sheikh was a close confidante of Hizb ul Mujahideen and Lashkar e Toiba who are operating in Qaimoh belt of Kulgam district.

More details are awaited.

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Tihar torture: Budgam civil society demands shifting of Salahuddin’s son to Central jail Srinagar

Kashmir Wire
Srinagar

Condemning “heinous and murderous” assault on Syed Shahid  Yousuf  in Delhi’s Tihar Jail, the Civil Society Budgam on Wednesday demanded immediate shifting of Shahid Yousuf, the son of United Jihad Council supreme commander Syed Salahuddin, to Srinagar central jail to avoid further such incidents and ensure his safety.

“Keeping his security in view it is impressed that Syed Shahid Yousuf must be shifted to Srinagar central jail to avoid further such incidents and ensure his safety, the society said in a signed statement. They also demanded stern action against the security forces involved in the heinous and murderous assault on Shahid, son of Hizbul Mujahideen Supermo Syed Salahuddin.”

The society said a 22-member delegation met Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on October 22 to convey “our deep concern about the unwarranted arrest” of Shahid.

The delegation stressed that Shahid is a noble, humble and absolutely peaceful citizen, sought CM’s personal intervention in securing the release of Shahid.

However, much to the deep agony and disappointment of the family and entire society, Shahid continues to be under detention and his judicial custody has further been extended upto December 22, despite the CM’s assurance to the contrary.

Despite the assurance of the CM that no further harassment would be inflicted upon Shahid and secure his release, he has reportedly been beaten to pulp along with other inmates by Tamil Nadu Special Force (TNSF) guarding the high security cell in Tihar Jail which has resulted in multiple and visible severe injuries to him, the society said.

They said although his health condition deserved an immediate medical consultation, the same was denied and only a first aid was provided to him.

Tracing history of the torture and harassment meted out to the family, the society said Shahid’s father has left the family at a time when all his children were innocent kids. In 90’s their house would get frequently raided during nights and days, frequent arrests and torture was the routine.

In 1995 their house was reduced to rubble by government forces which forced them to migrate to Srinagar and go into hiding to evade frequent raids. Shahid is a peaceful citizen who worked as Rehbari-Ziraat (skilled labour) for ten years at a meager Rs.1500/ per month and only got regularized in March this year, the society said.

The society said “It would be disheartening for you to learn that out of three small kids of Shahid, the eldest one, who is nine years old, is a known case of down’s syndrome, whose upbringing was the major responsibility on the shoulders of his father. However, the absence of his father has taken a toll on the child’s wellbeing and will hinder his education.”

Today we again remind the CM to take urgent cognizance of the matter and to secure the release of Shahid.

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3 months license suspension for using mobile during driving

Srinagar

Senior Superintendent of Traffic City Srinagar Tahir Saleem Khan on Wednesday said that the license of those found using their mobile phones while driving would be suspended for at least three months or more under section 19 of Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 read with Rule, 21 of Central Motor Vehicles Rule, 1989.

 

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IUST holds daylong programme on Waste Management

Srinagar

As part of waste management awareness programme among the faculty and students, Mantaqi Centre for Science and Society and Department of Mathematical Sciences (Environmental Science Division), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) organized a daylong programme on waste management and cleanliness drive, on Wednesday at the Varsity Campus, a spokesperson of the University said in a statement.

Prof Mushtaq Ahmad Qureshi, Dean Academic Affairs IUST, who was also the chief guest on the occasion highlighted the effects of pollutants and their chemical reactions on different life forms of earth. He brought religious and moral insights into the discussion in light of the teachings of Prophet Mohammad (SAW) depicting cleanliness of our surroundings and of oneself and how that can protect our environment.

Manzoor Ah Tarray (Ex-Chief Sanitation Officer) Srinagar Municipal Corporation gave a presentation highlighting the importance of sanitation and waste management practices that need to be incorporated at domestic, municipal and individual level. Depicting the role of municipal corporations in waste management and its proper disposal an on-site demonstration of waste collection, segregation and treatment were performed by Tarray. Further, the role and active participation of youth in dealing with the waste as per the prescribed rules and regulation of SPCB and CPCB was emphasized.

The programme ended with a cleanliness drive within campus which was attended by both faculty members and students.

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Two persons die, as many suffer injuries in Gurez road accident

Srinagar

Two persons died while two others suffered injuries after a vehicle they were traveling in met with an accident near Wampora bridge in Gurez.

Police officials said that a Tata Sumo bearing registration number JKO1S-8179 was on way to Kanzalwan from Dawar. “It met an accident on Wampora bridge.”

They said that two persons have died in the accident while two others have suffered injuries.

Police have registered a case.

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Tihar torture: CM should visit Tihar and ensure safety of Kashmiri detainees, Dr Farooq

Srinagar

Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President and Member of Parliament, Dr Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday strongly condemned incidents of assaults on Kashmiri detainees at Tihar Jail and said such incidents were reprehensible and unacceptable. Speaking to reporters at National Conference Headquarters, ‘Nawa-e-Subha’ in Srinagar, Dr Farooq Abdullah sought the immediate shifting of all Kashmiri prisoners to jails within Jammu and Kashmir and said the Chief Minister was morally bound to ensure their safety and welfare.

“The reports of such assaults are extremely condemnable and unacceptable. Irrespective of their political affiliations and ideologies or the nature of cases against them, the detainees have human rights that are detailed under the jail manuals and there should be strict adherence to these procedures and regulations and there should be no deviation”, Dr Farooq Abdullah said.

The National Conference President also expressed serious concern over the safety of the detainees especially in view of an elaborate campaign by certain news channels and said all Kashmiri detainees should be immediately shifted to jails within the State. “The Chief Minister should immediately visit Tihar Jail and ensure their safety and also initiate a process of shifting these prisoners back to jails within the State while the cases against them are processed. The rule of law is supreme and under the same rule of law, every detainee has unquestionable and non-negotiable rights. These rights have to be upheld at all costs”, the National Conference President added.

Dr Farooq also sought that all juvenile detainees be treated strictly in adherence to juvenile justice laws and regulations.

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Leopard dies in Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba after being caught in barbed wire

Srinagar

The carcass of a leopard caught in barbed wire was recovered from the Birpur forest in Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba district, an official said today.

A team of officials from the police and wildlife protection department rushed to the area yesterday after locals informed them.

“The leopard might have been injured while struggling to free itself after being caught in the barbed wire,” said an official.

The carcass was shifted to the Veterinary Hospital for a post-mortem, he added.

An FIR has been registered.

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Musharraf will do anything to find foothold in Pakistan: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar 

Hitting out at General Pervez Musharraf for asserting support for Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said the former Pakistan president will say anything to find a foothold in Pakistan.

Lashing out at a section of national media, Abdullah said may be now some of the news channels and anchors will stop falling over themselves to interview this man.

“May be now some of our news channels & anchors will stop falling over themselves to interview this man. Clearly he will say anything to find a foothold in Pakistan,” Abdullah, who is the working president of National Conference (NC), wrote on micro-blogging site twitter.

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JKCA scam: High Court grants CBI three weeks to complete probe

Srinagar

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has granted CBI three more weeks to complete investigation into multi-crore scam in Jammu and Kashmir cricket Association.

The Division Bench of Justice Tashi Rabstan and Justice Sanjeev Kumar Gupta granted three weeks as last and final opportunity to CBI for concluding the investigation.

Court was hearing an application filed by CBI seeking further time for carrying out the investigation into the scam but the application has been vehemently opposed by the other side with the submission that the matter has been decided in September 2015 with the direction to CBI to investigate the case within a period of six months.

 

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Army suspects its deserter killed TA army man in Shopian

Srinagar

Even as the J&K Police continues its investigation into the killing of Territorial Army man Irfan Dar, 23, in Shopian, the Army suspects that Territorial Army deserter Zahoor Thokar may have been part of the group that killed him.

Reports quoting army officials said initial investigations point out that Zahoor was part of the three-member militant squad that shot dead Dar in an apple orchard at Sazan in Shopian on Saturday.

“We have certain reasons to believe that Zahoor was involved in the killing of the TA soldier. But confirmation is still awaited,” an Army officer privy to the investigations said, quoted Tribune India. He said three militants had intercepted his car and shot him dead.

“Dar, who was on leave, was not abducted as the initial report stated. We also came to know through our sources that Zahoor was spotted around the area after the killing of Dar,” another Army officer, according to the report said.

Zahoor of Sirnoo, Pulwama, had deserted his unit in northern Kashmir’s Baramulla in July along with a rifle and three magazines and later joined militant group Hizbul Mujahideen.

Police sources said Zahoor and Dar were course mates in the Territorial Army and knew each other well. “They had also joined the Army the same year.”

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Torture of Kashmiri inmates: Union Home Ministry seeks report from DG Tihar jail

Srinagar

The Union Home Ministry has sought a report from the Director General of Tihar jail in the wake of the torture of Kashmiri inmates in the prison, leading to severe injuries.

However, official sources said, as per the preliminary information, Syed Shahid Yusuf, son of Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin, who is also lodged in Tihar jail in connection with terror funding cases, was not assaulted.

The ministry has asked the Director General of the Tihar jail to submit a report as early as possible detailing the incident and the action taken so far.

The home ministry has also requested Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal to direct the appropriate authority to review the security arrangements in the high security prison and taken necessary measures wherever needed, the sources said.

They said, as per the preliminary information, three prisoners were found to be having unauthorised materials and when the jail officials tried to remove them, the inmates resisted and had to be overpowered.

Details about the prisoners involved in the incident were awaited, the sources said.
Asked whether Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti had telephoned Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba enquiring about the Tihar incident, a home ministry official stated that the home secretary’s interaction with constitutional authorities are in the nature of privileged communication and hence the ministry can neither confirm or deny any such interaction.

Earlier, reports from Srinagar said Mehbooba spoke with Gauba about social media reports on the alleged assault of Kashmiri prisoners in Tihar jail and urged him to ensure their safety.

Mufti spoke to Gauba after photographs of injured Kashmiri undertrials surfaced on social media sites here, state government officials said.

“A prison is considered to be the safest place but the alleged incidents that have come to light put a question mark on it,” she said in a statement.

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Delhi High Court committee confirms ‘torture’ of Kashmiri inmates in Tihar jail

Srinagar

A Kashmir lawyers body said that a committee of High Court Judicial Officer constituted by Delhi Hight Court has confirmed that eighteen prisoners including Shahid Yousuf, son of Hizb chief Syed Salah-ud-din, were beaten by the prison staff “ruthlessly without any rhyme or reason” in Tihar jail.

In a statement the Kashmir High Court Bar Association said the committee has reported that the prisoners were beaten up with such severity that they feel that the jail authorities may kill them on one or the other pretext.

The lawyers’ body appreciated the concern shown by the Division Bench of Delhi High Court for describing the matter “very serious” requiring a “serious probe” and asking the Medical Superintendent, All India Medical Institute, to set up a Board for conducting the medical test of all the 18 prisoners, who were thrashed by the jail authorities including the Tamil Nadu Special Force, in high risk ward (C&F).

“Due to the beating the prisoners received serious injuries and to give their report to the fact-finding committee and also preserve the CCTV footage of the incident,” the Bar Association said and requested the International Human Rights Organizations and other agencies including International Red Cross, to visit Tihar Jail and see for themselves as to how the jail authorities are ill-treating the Kashmiri prisoners.

Besides, the lawyers’ body said that the prisoners are asked to sleep on the floor, not provided with any medical assistance, which is a flagrant violation of the jail rules and regulations.

The Bar Association also condemned the “failure” of the Jammu and Kashmir government to provide free medical treatment to Zahid Manzoor, who was targeted from a short range by the government forces and was sprayed with pellets over his back when he was returning home from his examination centre. “The P/S Safakadal has no doubt registered an FIR in the matter, but no one has been arrested so far, for committing the gruesome act, leaving the injured Zahid Manzoor who has been operated upon in SMHS Hospital Srinagar and is battling for his life.”

The Bar Association also condemned the firing of pellets by the forces at Hajin on the civilian population, who were protesting against the continued Cordon and Search Operation in the area, “due to which two women sustained pellet injuries and were rushed to the hospital for treatment”.

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Innovation, efficient marketing strategy key to survival in highly competitive business environment: Drabu

Srinagar

Minister for Finance, Labour & Employment Dr Haseeb Drabu today asked the Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) to adopt proactive administrative approach mixed with judicious resource management to achieve efficient results.

The Minister said this at a meeting convened to review the functioning of various Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in the State.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce Shailendra Kumar, Commissioner Secretary PDD Hirdesh Kumar, Managing Directors/Heads of Corporation including Jammu Kashmir Power Development Corporation (JKPDC), Chenab Valley Power Projects (CVPP), J&K Handicraft (S&E) Corporation, J&K State Handloom Development Corporation Ltd, Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), Craft Development Institute (CDI), School of Design, State Forest Corporation (SFC) and J&K State Agro Industries Development Corporation Ltd.

The Minister took a detailed review of the functioning and financial position of these Corporations.

Taking progress report of JKPDC, the Minister asked the Corporation to conduct detailed audit by professionals so as to get a clear picture of Corporation’s finances. He called for conducting a fresh exercise to revaluate the assets of the Corporation as the actual assets position will act as facilitator for JKPDC. He also called for comprehensive structural revamp of the Corporation.

While reviewing the functioning of Chenab Valley Power Projects which is a joint venture with NHPC, the Minister was informed about the status of the power projects undertaken by the Corporation and issues confronting CVPP were also discussed in detail.

Among other things, future plan along with equity flow, timely flow of funds for execution of projects, disbursement of land compensation to due beneficiaries were also discussed in the meeting.

While taking review of J&K Handicraft (S&E) Corporation and J&K State Handloom Development Corporation, the Minister was informed about the activities, functioning and financial position of these PSUs.

Dr Drabu asked the concerned to inculcate modern and innovative marketing practices and to create e-marketing platform to survive in the competitive markets. He asked to explore all possibilities to revive the Corporations keeping in mind market demands.

The Minister asked these Corporations to study the model adopted by successful corporations operating in other states to improve their functioning and to develop an effective business plan. He also sought details of human resource in these corporations with details of the roles assigned to them.

Dr Drabu directed Indian Institute of Carpet Technology to take up digitizing efforts to preserve the State’s treasured designs. He said that there is a need to create a comprehensive knowledge asset so that people can benefit from it.

He further asked the IICT to ensure dissemination of knowledge of products especially carpets by putting up proper guides in the public space for which they will be provided required financial assistance.

Dr Drabu asked IICT to double their efforts so that the rich heritage of the state can be preserved besides encouraging youth to get involved in these sectors to revive traditional arts and crafts.

While discussing the functioning of Craft Development Institute and School of Design, Dr Drabu asked them to expand their activities to other parts of the state besides effective utilization of human resources.

Meanwhile, the Minister also reviewed functioning of J&K State Agro Industries Development Corporation where the Minister was informed about the activities and functioning of the corporation.

Dr Drabu directed the concerned to look for possibilities to develop the produce by Agro Industries into a brand of ‘Agro Organic’ so as to increase its market value.

The heads of the Corporations also put forth various issues and demands including budgetary support and other necessary assistance from the government.

The Minister assured the Corporations of essential financial support from the government for reviving the bodies on merit basis.

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Tonight, Interlocutor is in Dak Bunglow Khanabal

SRINAGAR: In a bid to convey the message of concern, Delhi’s point man Dineshwar Sharma has decided against driving to Srinagar for the night. He will stay in Dak Bunglow Khanbal (Islamabad), well placed sources said.

The trend of putting p in peripheral districts was started by the Chief Minister, early last month. In a long list of the interlocutors that Delhi appointed in recent years, Sharma is the first one to spend a night outside Srinagar.

Sharma had a busy day on Tuesday as he drove to the south Kashmir district and spent the day with, according to officials, more than a dozen delegations. Almost all the delegations comprised young boys. They discussed their issues and concerns, sources said.

A report said that the some boys who were recently beaten by the soldiers also met Sharma. Though the exact details of their interaction were not immediately known, reports said the they briefd Sharma abot what happens to yong men on the roads.

Sharma, who is scheduled to take off for Delhi Wednesday afternoon, has been talking to the young men in absence of any police or civil administration official. Sources said he has been exchanging details and in certain cases e-mail addresses with the people he meet. All the discussions, so far, have remained in camera.

Besides, he has been speaking at great lengths with the delegations he is getting. To one delegation, he has given a long talk about the trust deficit between the two neighbouring countries, sources said.

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Western Disturbance eludes again, night temperature to dip further in Kashmir

Srinagar

A Western Disturbance has again eluded the region which will further intensify chill in Kashmir valley and Ladakh, where minimum temperature was below freezing point.

A Met department spokesperson said on Tuesday that a fresh WD, which originated in the Arabian Sea, had entered the region.

But, he said, it didn’t exactly hit the state, adding it however, resulted in cloudy skies.

“Light rain or snow could occur at isolated places in the Valley in the evening on Tuesday,” he said.

However, he said from Wednesday onwards the sky will be clear, which could result in further dip in the night temperature.

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Resistance leaders ask international rights bodies to ensure security of Kashmiri prisoners in Tihar jail

Srinagar

The Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL) on Tuesday appealed to the international rights bodies to take cognizance of the reports of thrashing of Kashmiri detainees, including the son of Hizb supremo Syed Salahuddin in Tihar jail.

In a statement, the JRL comprising Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Muhammad Yasin Malik expressed serious concern over the plight of hundreds of Kashmiri prisoners lodged in Tihar and various jails in and outside the state.

They alleged that the jail authorities were badly treating all these prisoners in complete violation of jail manual.

“The ghastly act has put the lives of all Kashmiri political prisoners at risk,” they said.

They appealed to the international organizations, including United Nations, Human Rights Commission, Asia watch and Amnesty International to take note of the “inhuman and hostile treatment meted out to detainees lodged in Tihar jail.”

The leadership sought help from international agencies and asked to provide suitable treatment to those injured in recent thrashing incident and ensure their security and safety.

JRL while referring to Supreme court ruling, demanded shifting of prisoners, saying detainees are subjected to vengeance, and despite sufficient accommodation in local jails, they are shifted to outside jails and as such their families face immense difficulties to seek meeting with their wards.

“They even ignore the ruling of Supreme Court regarding prisoners wherein it has clearly directed state authorities to lodge detainees adjacent to their home cities,” said the leadership.

Criticizing authorities for their “callous approach”, JRL said: “It is extreme state sponsored oppression and their tall claims and rhetoric about humanity and democracy are mere hoax.”

Thrashing incident in Tihar jail is extremely “inhuman and immoral act”, the JRL claimed that these “coward attacks are being carried on the directions of the authorities.”

They strongly condemned the thrashing of Syed Shahid Yusuf in high security ward of Tihar jail, saying that “on behest of jail authorities, criminals are attacking and taking extreme steps against Kashmiri detainees.”

They said those claiming to be the champions of democracy are violating the basic norms of humanity while treating these detainees in total violations of norms set by international community.

JRL claimed that these “criminals have admitted that they are carrying out the orders of jail administration and attacking and injuring Kashmiri prisoners.”

The JRL said that Dr Gh Mohd Bhat, Ahtisham, Shazad Ahmad, Mohd Subhan, Ayaz Akbar, Raja Meraj u Din Kalwal, Altaf Ahmad Shah, Mohd Aslam Wani and Dr Waseem are lodged in the same ward where Shahid Yusuf and other detainees were attacked.

They asked the international human rights organizations to facilitate suitable treatment to those injured and ensure their security and safety.

“These detainees are not criminals involved in any offence but they represent political aspirations of their nation,” said the JRL, adding: “subjecting detainees to physical torture reflects the sectarian mindset of authorities.”

They said that such attacks won’t “break our resolve and we will pursue freedom mission till its logical end.”

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J&K Bank opens cluster office in Doda

Srinagar

J&K Bank on Tuesday opened its cluster office in new premises at Doda. Premises of Cluster-1, Doda was inaugurated by Executive President, SS Sehgal in presence of Zonal Head Khursheed Ahmed Fazili and Arvind Gupta, Vice President Business Support Division.

Besides valuable clients, the inaugural function was also attended by all the three cluster heads of the Zone, business heads of nearby business units and other staff.

This Cluster-1 Doda is located in the centre of Doda town and is easily accessible for the general public. It has 30 business units of District Doda under its jurisdiction. Public in general and customers of the Bank in particular will be immensely benefitted with the commencement of working of the cluster office in the new premises. It will facilitate ease of doing business in the area due to its easy approach and access.

Pertinently, the centrally located cluster office will help in taking the banking services to the doorsteps of inhabitants of District Doda which is another step towards commitment of J&K Bank towards the citizens of the State.

Speaking on the occasion the Executive President, SS Sehgal, congratulated the Zonal Head, Cluster Head and other staff and wished them success. Listing various achievements of the Bank, he also advised to be focused on the challenges ahead to achieve the desired results.

Achievement of business targets was emphasized upon while providing best services to the clientele of the Bank. He also advised the Cluster Heads and the Business Unit heads to not only achieve the business/other targets but surpass them during the current financial year.

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Lashkar-e-Toiba condemns ‘atrocities’ committed by forces on people of Hajin

Srinagar

Militant outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba has condemned the “violence” imposed on the residents of Hajin in Northern Kashmir.

Mahmood Shah, Chief Lashkar-e-Taibe in a statement to news agency CNS said: “Indian terrorism cannot damage the freedom struggle. The right to freedom is the just right of Kashmiris and India must submit to the indigenous Freedom Struggle of Kashmir. The fathers and mothers of the nation cannot leave behind their sons who are fighting the Indian occupation.”

He said that Indian forces themselves are evident to the claim that the mothers, daughters, and sons bring themselves against the Indian forces whenever the Freedom Fighters are cornered, thus freeing them from the siege and blockade.

Mahmood Shah appealed to the world’s humanitarian organizations to take notice of the severe human rights violation in Jammu Kashmir. “Not only did the mothers, daughters and children were burnt alive, but also the fodder for animals, committing severe human rights violations.”

“Indian forces must bear in mind that the same brutality being imposed on Kashmiris will have a reactive intensified effect on themselves in future. We shall avenge the Indian atrocities at all costs.”

Mahmood Shah appreciated the Hajin residents and prayed for their safety, vowing to help and support them. (CNS)

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Shutdown in Rajpora against Army ‘assault’ on locals

Srinagar

A complete shutdown was observed in Rajpora area of Southern Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Tuesday.

The shutdown was observed against the alleged army assault on locals.

All the shops and business establishments are shut while agitated youth pelted stones on Jammu Kashmir Bank branch forcing it to close the business.

According to locals, on Sunday, when interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma was busy interacting with different delegations, a group of army soldiers appeared in Rajpora and thrashed people irrespective of their age and gender.

“Army soldiers thrashed people including shopkeepers without any reason. Two shopkeepers identified as Mudasir Ahmed Wani and Muhammad Asif Wani suffered critical injuries. They were taken to District Hospital Pulwama where Doctors referred them to Bones and Joint Hospital Srinagar,” said locals.

Station House Officer Rajpora, Nisar Ahmed said that they have been investigating the matter as locals are claiming that they were beaten by some army soldiers. (CNS)

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Police thrash Samad Inqilabi inside Kathua Jail, alleges family

Srinagar

Family of resistance leader Abdul Samad Inqilabi Tuesday alleged that Inqilabi was beaten to pulp by police inside Kathua Jail in Jammu region.

Inqilabi was arrested by Army from the residence of popular slain militant commander Burhan Wani in Tral town of Southern Kashmir’s Pulwama district on July 6 this year and later handed over to local police.

After spending 13 days at Police Station Tral, he was shifted to Srinagar Central Jail and accordingly was booked under Public Safety Act and lodged into Kathua Jail.

His family members told news agency CNS that Inqilabi was ruthlessly beaten up inside the jail and to prove he is mentally unsound, jail authorities even kept him in mental hospital.

“The incident has occurred on November 14 this month,” the family members said adding they are eagerly waiting for his next hearing that falls on Dec 7 in Kupwara Session Court.

“There is a threat to his life and we appeal authorities to shift him to Srinagar Central Jail,” they said. (CNS)

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Apathy: Retired employees still hold office in JK Cements

Srinagar

Due to mismanagement in Jammu and Kashmir Cements Limited, the superiors are not only giving legal extensions to retired employees but they don’t also bother to put the Corporation on tracks which has been suffering huge losses for last four years while according to reliable sources the liabilities of the Corporation has gone up to Rs 150 crore.

The men who are at the helm of affairs in Jammu Kashmir Cements Limited have been extending the services of blue-eyed retired employees. These measures have complicated the situation and according to disgruntled employees, the Corporation has been going from bad to worse.

“We fail to understand why the formal order issued by Industries and Commerce Department was violated and illegal extensions were given to blue-eyed employees,” said a group of employees from JK Cements Limited to news agency CNS.

Latest reports said that illegal extension was given recently to two retired employees Qaiser Wani and Sushil Hakroo.

General Manager Qaiser Wani is stil performing his duties despite attaining superannuation in October last month. “No, his service has not been extended and yet he is enjoying the same powers illegally and even put signatures as General Manager on various documents.

Despite clear orders from the Industries department that he should not exercise financial powers, he is right now enjoying the same.

A formal government order vide number. IND/JKCL/12/2010 dated 22-07-2014) of Industries Department reads: “Q A Wani, FA/CAO should not be given any responsibility which entails exercise of Financial Powers since he as Manager Finance has acted carelessly and released on account payment without following due procedure i.e. having failed to obtain the approval of Managing Director.”

Retired as Personal Secretary to Managing Director J&K Cements Ltd early this year, another employee Sushil Hakhoo is still enjoying the same powers without any extension.

Sources said that son of an former Manager Finance Sandeep Razdan has also been given illegal extension.

The concerned officials declined to comment on the issue. (CNS)

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Indian jails replication of infamous Guantanamo Bay, DeM reacts to thrashing of Tihar inmates

Srinagar

Expressing concern over the thrashing of Kashmiri prisoners in Tihar jail, Dukhtaran-e-Millat on Tuesday said that all the prisons outside Jammu and Kashmir have been turned into the “iniquitous Guantanamo Bay”.

Reacting to the beating of 18 prisoners including the son of United Jihad Council supremo Syed Salahuddin, Shahid Yousuf and others by police in the high security Tihar Jail, the secretary general of the outfit, Nahida Nasreen said that although Shahid does not have any case registered to his name, but he is being harassed and is under attack for he is the son of Salahuddin.

“Shahid does not have a single case registered to his name. However, his only sin is that he is a son of Syed Salahuddin,” Nasreen said.

She said that such heinous treatment is being given to Kashmiris to frighten them and to break their resolve.

“We want to remind these Hindu Brahmin forces of the occupier that we have given sacrifices in lacs for the pious cause. We will never succumb,” she said.

Nasreen said that the “occupying forces” are living in a fool’s paradise if they think “we will back off”. “We have burnt down such thoughts long ago,” she reiterated.

She said that the thrashing of inmates in Indian jail is not a new thing and has been happening for a long time with purpose. “It is being done under a well thought out conspiracy by the people with bigoted mindset,” she said.

Nasreen said that such tactics neither have ever mattered nor will matter to the people of Kashmir in future. “We should be ready for much worse and at the same time should reaffirm our resolve to fight the Brahmin occupiers till our last breath.”

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Om JI: Journalist who offered himself to medical science after death

Govt amends recruitment rules for LMD Gazetted services

Srinagar

Government has notified fresh Service Recruitment Rules for Gazetted services in Legal Metrology Department by replacing J&K Legal Metrology (Gazetted) Service Recruitment Rules, 2005.

In this regard, the government has issued SRO 466 notifying J&K Legal Metrology (Gazetted) Service Recruitment Rules, 2017 in which Schedule-I comprise 28 sanctioned strength of posts, including 2 Joint Controllers, 07 Deputy Controllers and 19 Assistant Controllers while Schedule II provided minimum qualification and method of Recruitment.

As per Schedule II, Joint Controller can be appointed 100% by promotion from Class –II having at least three years substantive service in that class while Deputy Controller will be selected 100 % by promotion from Class-III having at least three years substantive service in that class.

According to the new rules, in case of Assistant Controller, minimum qualification should be BSc with Physics as one of the subjects from a recognized University Or BE/BTech in Engineering from a recognized University while two criteria have been mentioned for recruitment for the post of Assistant Controller.

For the Assistant Controller, there will be 50% direct recruitment and during probation period of one year, a candidate has to successfully undergo basic trainings course from the institute established by the Government of India for the purpose.      Similarly, Assistant Controller will be recruited in the Department 50% by promotion from amongst the members of Class-I (Executive) of Jammu and Kashmir Legal Metrology (Subordinate) Service having not less than five-year substantive service in that class and having passed the Basic Training Course from the Institute established by the Government of India for the purpose.

Following notification, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Chowdhary Zulfkar Ali said after assuming the charge of the Department, he was trying hard to amend the rules according to the present need and now Government has issued fresh rules replacing 12 years old rules. He said that new rules will strengthen the Department in better way.

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Khyber Himalayan Resort Gulmarg wins ‘Favourite Boutique Hotel’ for the 5th consecutive year

Srinagar

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, has won the award for the Favourite Boutique Hotel at the seventh edition of the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Travel Awards.

Hosted in New Delhi on November 27, the ceremony saw the attendance of select invitees comprising industry leaders, influencers and marquee names from travel, tourism and government bodies. The evening was a glorious occasion for The Khyber as readers of Condé Nast Traveller, the Last Word in Travel, honored it for the fifth year running, reads a press release.

“Being selected once again as Favourite Boutique Hotel –India [2017] by Condé Nast Traveller India readers reaffirms the traveller’s belief in The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa as the finest resort in Gulmarg; offering services, comforts, and facilities on a par with international standards. It is a gratifying moment for The Khyber team as we constantly strive to exceed the expectations of our guests and make every visit a memorable experience for them. Of course, the legendary beauty of Gulmarg and its year-round appeal as a destination — whether it is to ski in the winter or to play golf or trek in the summer — for Indian as well as foreign travellers– also augments its charm and we hope it will beckon more travellers to come and experience Kashmiri hospitality,” said Umar Tramboo, MD, Pinnacle Resorts Pvt. Ltd, promoter of The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg.

Readers of Condé Nast Traveller India voted for their preferred Destinations, Airlines, Hotels, Spas, Airports and more, across several categories, based on their personal experiences. Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Travel Awards are globally renowned and considered the most prestigious in the industry. They honor the best in travel, tourism, and hospitality, as chosen by the discerning and influential readers of Condé Nast Traveller.

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg located at an elevation of 8,825 ft. in the Pir Panjal range of the majestic Himalayas is spread over seven acres in a pristine pine valley.

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Rasheed appreciates govt’s concern to improve quality of education in state run schools

Srinagar

Appreciating Jammu and Kashmir Govt’s concern to improve quality education in Govt schools, Awami Ittihad Party chairperson and incumbent Langate lawmaker, Er Rasheed on Tuesday said that recent directives passed by education department seeking action against teachers who performed below standard is a welcome step, however the proposal to post the teachers showing poor performance to remote areas like Keran, Karnah and Machil has exposed the truth that Govt has never been sincere to the people of remote areas.

Rasheed, in a statement, said, “Transferring underperforming teachers to remote areas and projecting the decision as a punishment to them proves that Govt does not want good teachers to serve in these remote areas, who otherwise deserve and require more attention than cities, towns and well-connected villages.”

If Govt wants education standards to improve and teachers to perform well, the promotion of teachers should be made on the basis of their performance and their posting, in any case, should not be seen or made like a punishment, he said.

“The performance should be the only criteria to elevate teachers and their length of service should not be the criteria for their promotion. If Govt truly wants underperforming teachers to be taken to task, their postings should never ever be seen or related to their performance. Posting underperforming teachers in the remote area gives the impression that remote areas don’t deserve or require good teachers”.

Rasheed appealed teacher community to offer their co-operation to the Govt for improving the overall performance of teachers and added that Govt needs to keep the education sector on top most priority to ensure that Jammu and Kashmir compete to the best possible extent.

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Tihar ‘assault’ victim appears before a local court in Kashmir, sent to hospital

Kashmir Wire
Srinagar

One of the 18 Kashmiri victims of assault in Delhi’s Tihar jail on the night of November 21 got some relief on Tuesday when a local court directed the police to get the victim treated at the hospital as “marks of injuries were visible” on his body.

The order was passed by the court when Ahtesham Ahmad, son of  Farooq Ahmad, a resident of Batpora-Sopore was produced before the court in an old case involving slain Hizbul Mujahideen commander Qayoom Najar.

Ahtesham was taken to sub-district hospital Sopore for treatment as per the court orders.

Ahtesham was brought to Srinagar on Monday from Delhi and was taken to Sopore this morning in the court of sessions judge Sopore in connection with the case.

Ahtesham, (25) is among 18 Kashmiris who were allegedly assaulted by a unit of Tamil Nadu Special Police (TSP) inside Delhi’s Tihar Jail on the night of November 21. Among other victims included Syed Shahid Yousuf, son of Hizbul Mujahideen Supremo Syed Salahuddin.

A committee constituted by Delhi High Court has found that the TSP personnel have allegedly beaten as many as 18 jail inmates of Tihar jail.

Yesterday, the Delhi High Court directed Tihar jail authorities to get all the victims specially treated at AIIMS Delhi. The court will hear the case after three weeks following another report by a newly constituted committee which is led by a district and sessions judge.

The incident sent shock waves throughout Kashmir valley yesterday and one and all condemned the action of the jail authorities which was in violation of the law and jail manual.

Taking cognizance of the alleged attack on Kashmiri prisoners, J&K chief minister, Mehbooba Mufti, today took up the matter with the government of India and has sought action against the accused. (Kashmir Wire)

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Torture of Kashmiri inmates at Tihar: Mirwaiz appeals UNHR, Amnesty, ICRC to intervene

Srinagar

Hurriyat Conference (m0 chairperson and Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Tuesday appealed the United Nations Human Rights Group, Amnesty International and International Committee of Red Cross to take strong note of the torture and severe beating of Kashmiri prisoners by the jail authorities at Tihar Jail.

Physical torture of Kashmiri inmates in #TiharJail, is a clear violation of fundamental, human and legal rights of prisoners who have been subjected to severe beating by the jail authorities. we appeal @UNHumanRights, @amnesty @ICRC to take strong note & intervene in this matter

— Mirwaiz Umar Farooq (@MirwaizKashmir) November 28, 2017

Mirwaiz said that the torture of Kashmiri inmates is a clear violation of fundamental, human and legal rights of prisoners.

Mirwaiz tweeted: “Physical torture of Kashmiri inmates in #TiharJail, is a clear violation of fundamental, human and legal rights of prisoners who have been subjected to severe beating by the jail authorities. we appeal @UNHumanRights, @amnesty @ICRC to take strong note & intervene in this  matter (sic).”

Pertinently, a unit of Tamil Nadu Special Police (TSP), a committee constituted by Delhi High Court has found, has allegedly beaten as many as 18 jail inmates of Tihar jail, among whom most are Kashmiri prisoners including the son of Syed Salahuddin named Shahid Yousuf.

Yesterday, the Delhi High Court directed Tihar jail authorities to get all the victims specially treated at AIIMS Delhi.

The court will listen to the proceedings of the case after three weeks following another report by a newly constituted committee which is led by a district and sessions judge.

Taking cognizance of the alleged attack on Kashmiri prisoners, J&K chief minister, Mehbooba Mufti, has taken up the case with the government of India and has sought action against the accused.

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